Arsenal defender Jurrien Timber has earned high praise in the Netherlands after impressing both club and country with his versatility and composure. Dutch analyst Hans Kraay Jr. has backed Ronald Koeman’s decision to shift Timber into a central defensive role for the national team, calling it “more than fair” based on his current performances.
Timber has been one of Arsenal’s most consistent performers since joining from Ajax in 2023, primarily operating at right-back. However, Koeman has used him in central defence in recent matches, including the 4-0 win over Malta, and the move appears to have paid off.
Hans Kraay Jr. backs Koeman’s tactical call
Speaking via Voetbal Primeur, Kraay Jr. explained that Timber’s recent form fully justifies his selection ahead of established defenders like Stefan de Vrij and Jan Paul van Hecke.
“I completely understand. He’s making such an impression on everyone and everything (at Arsenal). Not just his teammates and manager, but everyone. I think it’s more than fair that he’s being chosen over Jan Paul van Hecke and Stefan de Vrij. He’s in such good form. He often played in that position at Ajax under Erik ten Hag, so it won’t take him any getting used to.” — Hans Kraay Jr., via Voetbal Primeur
The analyst pointed out that Timber’s tactical intelligence and experience under Erik ten Hag make him perfectly suited to the role, especially now that he has added Premier League-level sharpness and discipline under Mikel Arteta.
Timber embraces his versatility
For his part, the Arsenal star has no complaints about being moved around. Timber told Soccer News that he values his ability to adapt and will always prioritise what’s best for the team.
“I play where the manager needs me. I think it’s one of my strengths that I can play in multiple positions. I’ve been able to prove myself at centre-back, and of course, someone like Virgil (van Dijk) makes it easier.” — Jurrien Timber, via Soccer News
His calmness in possession, positional awareness, and ability to play out from the back have made him a key figure in both Arteta’s system and Koeman’s evolving national setup.
The Arsenal factor
At Arsenal, Timber has been thriving since returning from a serious injury last season. He has brought balance to the Gunners’ backline, often drifting inside to build play from deeper areas — a trait that mirrors his new responsibilities with the Netherlands.
With Mikel Arteta’s side sitting top of the Premier League and unbeaten in Europe, Timber’s performances have drawn consistent praise from teammates and pundits alike.
Analyst Verdict
FootballPlace analyst John William believes Timber’s adaptability is exactly what sets him apart from other defenders in Europe:
“Timber’s positional flexibility gives both Arteta and Koeman options few managers have. Whether he’s at right-back or centre-back, his understanding of space and composure under pressure make him a complete modern defender.”
Key Insights
- Ronald Koeman has moved Jurrien Timber to centre-back for the Netherlands.
- Dutch analyst Hans Kraay Jr. says the decision is “more than fair.”
- Timber agrees, saying he’ll “play wherever the manager needs me.”
- The Arsenal defender has impressed at both right-back and centre-back.
- His adaptability and tactical intelligence have made him a mainstay for club and country.
What’s Next for Timber and the Netherlands?
With the Netherlands aiming for a strong finish to World Cup qualifying, Timber’s form could prove decisive. His ability to partner Virgil van Dijk gives Koeman stability at the back, while Arsenal will hope he maintains fitness and rhythm during the international break.
👉 Should Jurrien Timber become the Netherlands’ permanent centre-back — or is his best position still at right-back for Arsenal?
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